Adaptive Optics Control Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis Engineer, Steward Observatory

The University of Arizona•Tucson, AZ

27d•Onsite

About The Position

Steward Observatory is seeking a skilled Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis Engineer to support advanced dynamics and control analysis for world-class adaptive optics and space-based instrumentation programs. This role involves developing high-fidelity simulation frameworks and executing complex performance analyses that directly inform design and verification decisions for instruments. The position requires a high degree of innovation and creativity, and involves sharing technical knowledge with peer engineers and cross-functional teams. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline, or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience, plus a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in dynamics modeling, simulation, and controls analysis; OR Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline with a focus on dynamics or controls engineering, plus a minimum of 6 years of professional experience in simulation and analysis.
Extensive knowledge of system dynamics for flexible-body motion applications, including transfer functions, state-space, and discrete-time system modeling.
Advanced skill and demonstrated expertise in kinematic transforms, coordinate system analysis, and rigid- and flexible-body mechanics.
Thorough knowledge of control theory, including loop closure, stability analysis, and frequency-domain methods.
Advanced proficiency with MATLAB and Simulink simulation environments.
Ability to apply engineering principles independently to develop novel analytical approaches for complex problems without clear precedents.
Ability to exercise expert judgment in selecting and adapting methodologies to meet project needs.
Ability to communicate complex technical findings clearly to engineering team members and cross-functional stakeholders.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a high degree of innovation and creativity.

Nice To Haves

Spacecraft simulation experience.
Experience with Python programming.
Experience with actuators and sensors, including voice coil motors, piezoelectric actuators/sensors, accelerometers, and strain gauges.

Responsibilities

Independently develop and execute high-fidelity modeling and simulation frameworks for flexible-body space instrumentation and adaptive optics systems using advanced engineering principles and extensive knowledge of system dynamics.
Derive transfer functions, state-space, and discrete-time models from first principles, conduct kinematic transform derivations and coordinate system analyses, and implement simulation environments in MATLAB and Simulink.
Develop novel analytical methods for complex problems with a high degree of innovation and creativity, evaluating multiple approaches and exercising expert judgment in selecting the most appropriate methodology.
Provide technical guidance and share simulation best practices with graduate students and junior engineers supporting the project.
Independently perform time- and frequency-domain analyses to evaluate, predict, and optimize system performance for space-based instruments under development.
Conduct performance studies examining line-of-sight error budgets, Fine Steering Mirror (FSM) controller analyses and loop closure timing studies, and hardware performance trade studies.
Determine the scope and methodology of analyses without appreciable direction and communicate findings and their design implications to team members, key stakeholders, and project sponsors in formal reviews.
Provide simulation and analysis support for Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) activities at both component and system levels.
Generate test plans for characterization and verification, work with team members to execute these plans, and correlate test data with analytical models.
Exercise expert judgment in identifying discrepancies between predicted and measured performance and in determining appropriate corrective actions, including cases that require the development of new approaches.
Communicate AI&T findings and their system-level implications to engineering team members and stakeholders.